[Avodah] Balak "Blessing or Curse"

[Cantor Wolberg]

One of the rarities in the Bible is the Almighty who spoke directly to  
Balaam.  Balaam was evil and had his own agenda which shut out the  
reality of such awesome communication with God. Balaam only cared  
about himself and was the paradigm of selfishness. Our father, Abraham  
was able to perceive God because of his humility, even though all  
those around Abraham were idolators. Conversely, Balaam had what  
everyone would dream of -- an open communication with God, but in  
spite of that, he was not able to perceive the reality and truth of  
what it was that God expected.

The Talmud (Taanis 20a) says that it is better to be chastised by one  
who does so with love and concern, such as the prophet Achiyahu, the  
Shilonite (1 Kings 14:10-16) than to be praised by one who hates, such  
as Balaam.

May all the blessings we give a receive be sincere and from the heart.

rw
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